Electronic Suction Cup Release Using Gas Pressure Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a secure, portable, and easily relocatable solution to secure valuable items to surfaces without damaging the surrounding environment, addressing challenges such as limited access, portability, physical security, and compatibility with various surfaces.
Innovation Solution
An electronically-releasable suction cup assembly that includes a suction cup with a gas generating cell, connected to an electronic circuit, allowing for controlled release from surfaces by ejecting gas to alleviate vacuum pressure, enabling secure attachment and detachment of objects to flat surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a suction cup assembly is used to secure an object to a surface, then the object can be easily attached and detached, but the holding force and security may be insufficient for valuable items
Solution Approach 1:
The suction cup assembly is divided into separate functional components: a suction cup base for attachment, a gas generating cell for force enhancement, and an electronic control system. This segmentation allows each component to contribute specifically to either ease of operation or holding strength without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The gas generating cell introduces pneumatic pressure into the suction cup cavity, creating an additional outward force that enhances the holding strength of the suction cup. This allows the assembly to maintain strong attachment to valuable items while still being easily detachable through electronic control.
2Reliability
If a strong securement mechanism is used to prevent theft, then security is improved, but the ability to easily relocate the object is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The securement mechanism transitions from static to dynamic through the incorporation of an electronically controlled gas generating cell. The system can adapt its holding force between a secure locked state (with gas pressure) and a portable unlocked state (without gas pressure), allowing it to fulfill both security and relocatability requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The gas generating cell is self-contained within the suction cup assembly, requiring no external power source or complex infrastructure. When activated electronically, it autonomously generates gas pressure to enhance security, then can be easily deactivated for relocation, making the system self-sufficient and highly portable.
3Reliability
If traditional securing methods like chains or cables are used, then physical security is improved, but the surface may be damaged or altered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical securing methods (chains, cables, locks) with a suction-based system enhanced by gas pressure and electronic control. This substitution eliminates the need for physical anchors that could damage surfaces, allowing secure attachment to valuable items without harming the underlying surface.
Solution Approach 2:
The suction cup utilizes a flexible rim that conforms to the surface and creates a seal without rigid components. This flexible structure provides security through suction and gas pressure while being gentle on surfaces, preventing damage compared to rigid chains or cables.
4Reliability
If multiple components are added to enhance security and control, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated assembly: the suction cup base, gas generating cell, electronic control circuitry, and power source are combined into one compact unit. This consolidation provides enhanced security and control capabilities while minimizing the number of separate components that would need to be assembled and managed.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides secure attachment and easy release of objects, ensuring portability and protection of both the secured items and the surface, while maintaining surface integrity and preventing unauthorized access.
Implementation Method 1
The base may be configured to be releasably secured to the surface by forming a vacuum with the surface
Implementation Method 2
The gas generating cell is configured to selectively eject fluid into the cavity of the suction cup to release the suction cup from the surface
Data Source
AI summary
An electronically-releasable suction cup assembly is designed to releasably secure an object to a surface. The suction cup assembly includes a suction cup secured to the object. The suction cup has a cavity and is configured to be releasably secured to the surface. The suction cup assembly further includes a gas generating cell coupled to the suction cup. The gas generating cell is configured to selectively eject fluid into the cavity of the suction cup to release the suction cup from the surface.